Asian, Pacific Island Catholics in U.S. celebrate faith, diversity

Published: 2006-07-05

ARLINGTON, Va. (CNS) -- Hundreds of Catholics of Asian and Pacific Island heritage from all over the country gathered in Arlington June 30-July 3 for the first National Asian and Pacific Catholic Convocation. "We are witnesses of a historic moment," said Paulist Father Ricky Manalo from San Francisco, master of ceremonies for the event, which drew religious and lay leaders, diocesan ministry directors, social workers, theologians, educators and youths. "We gather together to give thanks for the many gifts of the Asian and Pacific cultures and traditions. This weekend we gather to praise God most of all, and the power of the Holy Spirit," he added. "We meet at a hopeful moment in this world," said Auxiliary Bishop Dominic M. Luong of Orange, Calif. "A time when more people have a chance to claim the freedom God intended for us all. It's also a time of great challenge. In some of the most advanced parts of the world some people no longer believe in hope," said Bishop Luong, who is the nation's first Catholic bishop of Vietnamese origin. "The Catholic Church rejects such a pessimistic view."

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